MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Black leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference in politics, education, business, the arts or another area of interest.
Profiles of these leaders will be published leading up to the Juneteenth holiday on June 19. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Andre Lynch, 34, of Pittsfield and North Adams is the vice provost for institutional equity and belonging at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.Andre Lynch
Andre Lynch
Age: 34
Community: Pittsfield and North Adams
His Story: Andre Lynch is the vice provost for institutional equity and belonging at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA). According to Lynch, his role involves strategic management and coordination of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
“I collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to develop and implement policies and programs that promote a culture of belonging, addressing systemic inequities and enhancing the overall educational experience,” he told MassLive.
A member of the President’s Executive Leadership Team, Lynch said he works closely with various campus units to integrate DEI principles into the curriculum, co-curricular activities and campus life.
He also said his role is substantial at MCLA as it makes students feel belong and are part of a greater higher education community.
“By actively promoting a more inclusive and equitable environment, I help to create a campus where all members feel valued and supported,” Lynch added.
Lynch said he holds a master’s degree in educational leadership with an emphasis in higher education from St. Lawrence University. Additionally, he is a doctoral researcher in St. John Fisher University’s Executive Leadership program.
“As a father of two beautiful girls, I am deeply committed to fostering a better future for the next generation,” Lynch said.
Lynch’s passion for equity work began when he worked in admissions for the State University of New York. He said while he was there he saw so many Black and Brown students struggle to get into college, which inspired him to actively recruit and encourage students from places similar to where he grew up to apply to college. But, his work revealed that these same students did not have a support system once they were admitted into college.
He said that it was this realization that encouraged him to be part of the solution to provide students of color with the necessary support to thrive in higher education.
“Education, I believe, is the most reliable path to social mobility,” he added.
In his words: “Develop a robust understanding of how to enact systemic change. While the tangible programs and performance-driven initiatives are important, they cannot stand alone. It is most essential to understand how to shift systems, build stakeholder engagement, and leverage alliances effectively.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
